You are here

Kicking off Eating Disorder Awareness Week 2016 #TalkingSavesLives

Submitted by nedic blogger on Mon, 02/01/2016 - 09:45

This is what it says on our 2016 Eating Disorder Awareness Week (EDAW) poster. This week, we want to promote the message that, “eating disorders can and do affect anyone” and commemorate EDAW with several activities to help raise awareness.

Thanks to the work of eating disorder organizations across the country, over 25 municipalities from coast to coast to coast are acknowledging EDAW with proclamations and local events. Also, Nova Scotia, British Columbia, Newfoundland and the Yukon Territories are proclaiming EDAW provincially and territorially.

Once again, various public venues across the country including the CN Tower, Niagara Falls, Vancouver City Hall and more will be illuminated with purple, the official colour of EDAW.

To start off the week, NEDIC will be hosting our second Twitter Chat on Monday February 1st at 12:00PM EST. Join us @theNEDIC using the hashtag #TalkingSavesLives to contribute to the conversation about eating disorders in Canada.

On Tuesday, February 2nd, we are collaborating with our friends at Sheena’s Place and NIED – the National Initiative for Eating Disorders, to host and moderate a community panel, “It’s Time to Talk: Unravelling the Stigma Around Eating Disorders”. The panel will examine sources of support, challenges and barriers to recover and the importance of enduring hope. This event is free and will take place at the University of Toronto Schools Auditorium, 371 Bloor Street West, from 7-9PM.

Professional and amateur spoken word artists will once again share performances on eating disorders, food and weight preoccupation, beauty ideals and more at our 3rd annual Spoken Word Event . Join us at 7PM at Round Venue (152 Augusta Ave.) in Kensington Market for a night of poetry, music and community. Admission is $10, $5 for students and all funds raised will go directly to support NEDIC’s national, toll-free helpline 1-866-NEDIC-20.

These are only a few examples of how NEDIC will be working to raise the profile of eating disorders in across the country from February 1st- 7th. We hope that this week encourages Canadians to come together and build awareness around eating disorders.

Our work does not end once EDAW is over. When the week comes to a close, we will continue to work tirelessly to provide information, education, resources, referrals and support to all of those who are affected by eating disorders. To donate or learn more about eating disorders and NEDIC’s programs and services, visit our website or call us at 1-866-NEDIC-20 (416-340-4156 in Toronto).

About this blog

Read about how real life experiences impact self-concept and body image. Writers reflect a diversity of opinions and perspectives.

Disclaimer: Pieces featured on this site are forms of self-expression and should not be considered medical or professional advice. NEDIC will not be held liable for any misinformation. If you would like to reprint or publish any or all content, please contact our blog coordinators at nedic1@uhn.ca

NEDIC Helpline Evaluation Survey

Have you used the NEDIC Helpline or Instant Chat before? If yes, please consider taking a few minutes to complete this anonymous survey.

The information you provide will not be used in any way that would identify you and will remain confidential. We value your feedback and will use it to improve the Helpline/Instant Chat and serve you better in the future.